Two years hasn’t been long enough, and Rob Richardson is seeking a second term on the Frankfort Board of Commissioners.
“I have discovered that although I had many years of experience working for the City of Frankfort, serving as an elected official has given me better insight into the scope of all city operations,” he explained. “I am driven by the desire to improve our community’s lives and bring a common-sense approach to government.”
While he credits the commission as a group for many of the accomplishments achieved during his first term, Richardson is most proud that the city government is operating within the budget, as well as generating a surplus through responsible fiscal management.
“This was a big priority of mine given the challenges of finding new revenue and identifying areas to make cuts,” he said, touting the city’s purchase of OpenGov. This new system will assist the finance department to work more efficiently, bring in revenue, and allow city departments to communicate effectively.
Richardson also pointed to the Frankfort Fire Department Station 1 project, which is being constructed on the former Pic-Pac property on West Second Street. He says this project will strengthen the city’s fire and EMS services while providing state-of-the-art technology and training for first responders that will benefit local residents.
He is glad to have supported long-term infrastructure needs in West Frankfort, specifically for The Paddocks development, as well as the potential growth within the area around the development.
“This development will increase revenues as it grows over the years,” Richardson stated.
When asked what he has learned serving as an elected official over the past two years, he recalled early in his first campaign being told by a previous city commissioner that the position required a time commitment beyond the two monthly meetings.
“From the beginning, I have had a standing weekly meeting with our city manager to discuss city operations, meeting agenda items, and discussions on growth and efficiency for the City of Frankfort,” Richardson replied, adding he has learned that serving requires research, dedication, and the willingness to learn.
A 1987 graduate of Madison Central High School, Richardson earned a Bachelor of Science in police administration from Eastern Kentucky University.
He moved to Frankfort in 1994 after being hired as a patrol officer with the Frankfort Police Department. He worked his way up the ladder and became assistant police chief and major in 2013. Richardson retired from the force in 2017, opting to continue his law enforcement career in a different capacity.
Currently, Richardson is a law enforcement liaison with the Kentucky Association Chiefs of Police, where he deals with legislative needs, law enforcement program development, and communication between law enforcement agencies and state government cabinets.
His job gives him the opportunity to visit different cities across the state, and he has developed relationships with police chiefs and elected government officials.
“These relationships have led to discussions surrounding challenges that other communities have faced, similar to Frankfort,” Richardson said. “I have gained in-depth insight into how some of these communities are finding solutions and sharing this information with city leadership and the commission.”
Looking ahead, his top priority is expanding the city sewer system, which he says will promote growth, economic development, and housing. Secondly, he will focus on public safety and providing first responders with the necessary resources and training. Thirdly, he intends to keep the city operating within the budget while identifying unnecessary expenses and prioritizing community needs.
“Although there has been concern with the budget, city staff, along with strategic planning, has ensured that resources are allocated effectively, contributing to the financial health of the city,” he commented.
One project Richardson has taken a personal interest in is the development of the downtown convention and meeting center. He says this center will bring economic growth to the entire community and ties into the current discussions regarding the Capital Plaza Hotel renovations.
Housing is another priority for Richardson, as the city faces a vast shortage of residential housing.
“We do have property that is zoned residential on the west side of Frankfort that is in the city limits that I have been seeking for development,” Richardson remarked. “With the increase in employment opportunities, people will need somewhere to live. I believe it’s important to retain our workforce to live in our city. The benefit to our city is the tax base increase.”
He is also a proponent of riverfront development, capitalizing on tourism, and looking into options for a swimming pool and recreation center.
Rob Richardson and his wife of nearly 33 years, Kim, have three daughters—Kolby, 29; Lexie, 28; and Maggie, 21—and a beagle-boxer named Axel.
“It has been a pleasure serving on the Frankfort city commission for the past year. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent my community,” he added. “I love hearing from the citizens of Frankfort about their needs and concerns. I look forward to continuing to serve this year and sincerely hope to be elected for a second term as your Frankfort city commissioner.”
https://state-journal.com/2026/01/25/richardson-ready-for-second-city-commission-term/